I got this photo some time ago, which was sent to me by one of our fans (who else), and even though it struck me as an awesome real-life optical illusion, I hesitated posting it online as it was obvious there has been some heavy photoshopping involved.

Never the less, I think the illusion in its essence is perfect. Moreover, it became even more interesting when I noticed the second illusion it hides. It took me few moments before I realized that the central column isn’t the only Escheresque object present. Perhaps it’s central placement and focus distracts people’s attention from noticing the second illusion, which isn’t much different itself.

How long did it take you to realize them both? There were some other posts on this site, that showcased real-life Escher Columns in action as well. Unfortunately, I can’t decide which were the best cases. Help me, and post a link (or attach image to your comment, if you wish) to your favorite ones!

*SPOILERS*
First illusion is the middle column, and the second one is the left column. Look closely.

Kara

The middle column is in the foreground at the top, but the background at the bottom, and then the column to the left is in the background at the top and foreground at the bottom.

Awesome Anonymous

the first illusion is that the column is it is attached to a column that is ‘behind’ it, but it is also to the side of it.
second illusion i think, is it makes a figure of some sort between the columns, just a guess

Jupiter

Well there is the first column which looks like it starts at the top of an arch closet to us but the bottom end on the far side of the room. The second one is similar. the left column starts at the top from the back wall and ends on the floor close to us

Cara

Yes, the first two illusions are the middle and right columns, but nobody has mentioned that the floor is not solid. The center of the floor is open making the area the columns sit on a wall, not a floor.

Am I the only one that sees this?

Helena Bruce

Nice one!

Ken Hortin

Have a look at the arches, they are another story! Married of course to the columns illusion. I think! Like it tho! Keep looking at it, more seems to happen.

I really can’t see anything that I would call a 2nd illusion… ok, the size of the columns according to their distance is wrong as well as their placement, but this count as the same illusion to me. And the 2 columns on the right probably are too close to be separated, but it’s difficult to tell from this angle.

owen

the second is that the left column is in front at the bottom but is behind at the top

steve youknowme

did any one notice the blue wall over lapping the middle column (bottom left middle column). yes! ; ?!!

steve youknowme

THE BLUE WALL is over lapping the middle column (bottom left)yes ;]

steve youknowme

; ]

steve youknowme

spolier? hold mouse pointer over any column it will tell you one to look for ; )

steve youknowme

an other trick how they got the columns insde the building. also ic it done with collored chalk? : |

fauzi

i think the second illusion is the column on the left from the bottom base